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Disney Strips Down 57-Year-Old Icons for a Modern Makeover

Walt Disney World Resort is once again making changes to some of its most nostalgic attractions, and longtime fans are taking notice. This time, the updates center on two beloved Jungle Book (1967) character statues at Disney’s Pop Century Resort.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort Overhauls Beloved Statues

Disney’s Pop Century Resort has undergone several significant updates in recent years, including room refurbishments and a redesign of its Everything Pop Shopping & Dining area. Now, the Value Resort hotel has set its sights on its massive Jungle Book statues, prominently displayed in the 1960s section of the hotel near the Hippy Dippy Pool.

The 90s section on of Disney's Pop Century Resort hotel at Walt Disney World Resort.
Credit: Disney

Last month, Disney Fanatic reported on guest concerns about the Baloo and Mowgli statues, which had begun showing significant wear and tear. The figures, which have stood as nostalgic centerpieces of Disney’s Pop Century Resort for decades, are now undergoing a major refurbishment.

In December, visitors noticed visible patches on Baloo’s paint job, followed by sections of spackle-like material appearing on the statue. By January 29, Disney Fanatic visited the resort to find Baloo wholly stripped of his color, primed, and awaiting a new coat of paint.

The Baloo Disney character statue undergoing repair.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Fanatic

A coat of white spackle-like material also appeared on the top of Mowgli’s head, suggesting he’d also undergo repair.

Two Disney character statues of Baloo and Mowgli.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Fanatic

Will More Disney Character Statues Get a Refresh?

While the Baloo and Mowgli character statues are the focus, Walt Disney World Resort has not announced whether additional statues at Pop Century Resort or other Value Resorts will receive similar updates. Resorts like Disney’s Art of Animation, All-Star Sports, All-Star Movies, and All-Star Music feature similar oversized figures, leaving some fans to wonder if more updates are on the way.

Have you spotted any construction projects at Walt Disney World Resort? In the comments, let Disney Fanatic know what you saw! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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